Palm Coast Times

On Tuesday, the U.S. House of Representatives approved the Jackie Robinson Ballpark National Commemorative Site Act. This bipartisan legislation was introduced by Congressmen Mike Waltz and Darren Soto. The act aims to honor the stadium where Jackie Robinson played his first professional game, breaking baseball's color barrier.

The legislation proposes designating the Jackie Robinson Ballpark in Daytona Beach, Florida, as a National Commemorative Site. It also directs the Secretary of Interior to conduct a feasibility study for its designation as a National Historic Landmark. The bill has received co-sponsorship from the entire Florida House delegation and support from both Major and Minor League Baseball.

"Jackie Robinson Ballpark in Daytona Beach has been a landmark in the history of the Civil Rights movement and of Florida," said Waltz. "On March 17th, 1946, Jackie Robinson changed professional baseball forever when he stepped out onto the field and broke the color barrier in the sport. His courage that day not only redefined the game but also signaled a profound step forward in the fight for civil rights in America. I’m thankful that the House has passed this bill to preserve and honor Jackie Robinson’s legacy, the pivotal role he played in Daytona Beach’s history, and the lasting impact he made on America as a whole."

The full text of the bill is available online.